The Sarnia Journal has partnered with local photographer Art Connolly to feature his captivating “Humans of Sarnia” series as he delves into the lives and experiences of everyday people in Sarnia. Follow his series on Instagram and Facebook
Meet Muzammil Umarfaruk Rop, a bright and ambitious 25-year-old international student from Gujarat, India, who’s currently making Sarnia his home while pursuing his education at Lambton College. Enrolled in the Applied Manufacturing Program, Muzammil is part of a diverse student body, with classmates hailing from various parts of the world, including India, Nepal, Morocco, Sri Lanka, and Africa.
Muzammil’s journey to Canada was driven by a desire for safety and a better education, something his mother strongly supported. Coming from a small village of about 1,500 people, he was accustomed to a close-knit community but sought the security and opportunities that Canada offers. After researching colleges in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Muzammil chose Sarnia for its smaller, more welcoming community.
Despite being far from home, he stays connected with his family through daily video chats, though he misses them dearly. He’s found comfort in the friendliness of Sarnians, who he notes are warm yet respect each other’s privacy. The clean environment and superior healthcare in Canada are other aspects he appreciates, contrasting sharply with the conditions back home.
Muzammil’s love for learning is evident in his ability to speak, read, and write five languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi, Urdu, and Arabic. His curiosity extends to exploring Sarnia, mostly on his trusty bicycle. Since last October, he’s clocked an impressive 212.14 hours and 923 miles, even braving the harsh Canadian winter with layers of coats and gloves.
As he prepares to enter his second year at Lambton College, Muzammil hopes to build a future in Sarnia as a Maintenance Engineer, leveraging his experience as a Junior Maintenance Engineer in India. Since September, he’s been working as a mechanic at Marcin Bowl, a job he enjoys thanks to the camaraderie with his colleagues and employer.
Muzammil’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for the new life he’s building in Sarnia. As he continues his journey, he’s not just learning from his studies but also from the community that’s welcomed him with open arms.
“Humans of Sarnia” founder Art Connolly is a man fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people in Sarnia. Inspired by the renowned “Humans of New York” series, with a camera in hand, he captures the very essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens.